St. Tarcissus Elementary School

My daughter is in the Preschool program at St. Tars. I cannot say enough about this school! It is really amazing. The preschool program is fantastic! They treat the children with such respect and truly help them become the best they can. My biggest regret is sending my daughter to another preschool last year. -Such night and day!!! We drive past 5 Catholic Schools to get to St. Tars everyday, and it is well worth it!! The community is exactly what we want our children to be raised in. - A really supportive community of great parents, amazing teachers, and a fantastic principal!!
--Submitted by a parent

Pros: This is a great catholic school. Probably ranks in the top percentile in the Northside. Nothing like a public school and many activities. In fact, one of the most extensive sports programs for catholic elementary schools in the Northwest Side. Cons: The school is old and needs more funding for aesthetic improvements and other things like central air.
--Submitted by a parent

I have two children in St Tarcissus and two that have graduated. The children were well prepared for high school and after having the oldest recently complete his ACT - well prepared for higher education. I can't say enough about the Jr High Teachers. I attribute much of my children's success to their teaching. The principal, Mr Hecker, was a teacher in the junior high for many years prior to becoming principal and has been very consistent. He doesn't rush to judgment. My children are receiving/have received an excellent education, built strong friendships and have a solid faith foundation that will last their lifetime. My older boys both played sports at St. Tars and now both are successful playing Varsity Basketball, Football and Track. Education 5*s, Athletics 5*s, Principal 5*s.
--Submitted by a parent

St.Tars is a very good school. The junior high teachers are the best. But they arn't many activities there. Few sports and very few other clubs. They school is filled with clicks but it all depends on the grade. I recommend to school because this school is exactly like a public school but with a great religion progam. It has a lot of stupid rules that are frankly pointless. Punishment is just slips.
--Submitted by a student

I am in 8th grade, and have been at St.Tars since Pre-K and it is an overall great school. The teachers in the junior high are very dedicated to their students. It is a good place to put your money if your child is willing to give it their all.
--Submitted by a student

I am completely disgusted with St. Tarcissus. They only cater to the average child and if you are above or below then you sink or swim all on your own. They claim they have resources for those needing the extra help, unfortunately they are not offered to everyone. The discipline policy is extremely inconsistent. You don't ever get a straight answer from any of the administrators. Don't waste your money here.
--Submitted by a parent

The school is well run, both my girls go there. It is clickish, but so is everything else. They give the kids alot of homework, working and doing homework with the kids doesn't leave alot of extra time...but I keep trying.
--Submitted by a parent

I was very disappointed with st. Tarcissus. As a school and as a parish. I felt the same parents did all the volunteering and other just sat back and complained. I felt the school did not offer enough for the academically advanced....They were often bored into 'trouble' as there weren't enough challenges offered. There are alot of clicks at the school both parents and students and teachers.
--Submitted by a parent

Wonderful junior high program. Needs some improvement in the 4th-6th grade area. Very happy with early childhood and 1st-3rd curriculum.
--Submitted by a parent

Great academics and facility - especially Junior High. Excels in preparation for high school, variety of extra-curricular activities.
--Submitted by a former student